Free-scoring strikers get glowing review from boss

Steve Wilkes has paid homage to his free-scoring Storks’ strike-force as the Arbories quartet continue to aid the club’s climb up the North West Counties Premier Division table.

Padiham’s front three of James Dean, Kieron Pickup and Aaron Taylor, who have been ably supplemented by makeshift right winger Marc Coyne, have been in prolific form lately and have contributed significantly to the club’s recent run.

Dean – who joined from Evo-Stik Premier Division side Warrington Town – who he joined from Conference North Chorley in May – has netted 14 times so far this term while his colleagues have 15 goals between them.

That spell has coincided with Padiham’s resurgence as they’ve registered eight wins in their last 10 games in all competitions, winning their last five.

That sequence has them joint top of the form table alongside Atherton Collieries.

Following the 4-2 triumph against Winsford United at the weekend, where his front three scored, Wilkes said: “It’s a much better place than what it was around six weeks ago. There’s a real buzz around the camp now and we’re looking forward to football matches.

“Players like Garry Hunter have returned from injury and he’s been immense.